Mysteries of vernacular: Zero - Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel
84,130 Views
993 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Though the first written number system can be dated back to 2500 years ago in Mesopotamia, a zero-like symbol did not appear until 7th century CE India. Jessica Oreck and Rachael Teel track the evolution of zero from a dot to the symbol we use today, as well as the Arabic, Italian and French roots of the word.
What are some numeral systems that don’t use zero?
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Director Jessica Oreck
- Producer Rachael Teel
